Bangkok to Saigon

22 days - from $2380

This overland journey takes us from Bangkok to Saigon and combines the best of Laos and Cambodia - two of Indochina’s treasure troves. After years of war, peace and tranquillity have come to Laos and this small land-locked nation is slowly opening its doors and offering the adventurous traveller a warm welcome. We travel on a wide variety of local transport including bus, songthaew, tuk-tuk, Mekong River boat, mini-van, train and pirogue. Accommodation is in simple hotels and guesthouses. A flight across to Cambodia enables us to uncover the mysteries of the ancient Khmer civilization. Our journey of discovery begins in Siem Reap, where we explore what is regarded as one of the world’s greatest archaeological monuments - the magnificent Angkor temple complexes. A bus journey takes us to the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, where we spend the day exploring this re-emerging city and visiting the sad and sobering Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Then it’s on to a countryside homestay and enjoying the waterfalls outside Kirirom National Park, then driving to the beach resort town of Sihanoukville before returning to Phnom Penh. The final leg of our journey takes us to Vietnam, where we end our trip in the vibrant city of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City).

Highlights

• Exploring the ancient splendour of Angkor Wat
• Nature’s dominion over man, Angkor Thom
• Night time stroll on the idyllic beaches of Sihanoukville
• The rising phoenix of Phnom Penh
• Feed a monk and guarantee your place in the next life, Luang Prabang.
• Slow boat through Laos, Mekong River.
• Swims and rope swings at Kuang Si Falls
• The tiny river town of Huay Xai
• Have your palm read at Wat Pho
• Muay Thai in Bangkok
• The Night Bazaar of Chiang Mai
• Cu Chi Tunnel crawl

Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Bangkok3: Chiang Mai4-5: Huay Xai - Mekong River - Pakbeng6-7: Luang Prabang8-11: Vang Vieng - Vientiane12-14: Siem Reap - Angkor15-16: Phnom Penh17: Chambok Homestay18-19: Sihanoukville20-22: Phnom Penh - Saigon

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included: An experienced local leader, the services of local guides at some sites. All transportation, accommodation, sightseeing and meals as indicated.
Not Included: International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure and airport taxes, visas, all other meals, all optional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
EquipmentIncluded: 30 Jul 10
Valid From: 31 Dec 69
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Bangkok to Saigon, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Trip Reference: GTBN